The Beard of Avon (Samuel French Theater Bookshops)

the long version

In the play, Shakspere abandons his wife, Anne Hathaway in Stratford-on-Avon after a visit from a touring company of players. He makes his way to London, determined to be an actor, and seeks out the theater troupe. After an audition scene that is a sendup of how directors and actors can treat one another, he is offered a silent "spear shaker" role. Through the troupe, Shakspere meets de Vere, who, as a nobleman, would be ostracized if it were discovered that he writes plays for performances by commoners before the public. A deal is struck and a writing partnership is formed - to which Shakspere will eventually make considerable contributions.